Medication processing system and method

ABSTRACT

This disclosure relates to a centrifugal vortex system for preparing a liquid, such as medicine, and includes a chamber housing defining a vortex chamber. An array of tangential apertures are formed in the chamber housing to permit fluid to be turbulently introduced into the vortex chamber to create a vortical flow of fluid through the vortex chamber. In one embodiment, a plurality of vortex chambers are arranged in series to allow the fluid to pass through several vortex chambers. In other embodiments, the chamber housing may be stepped, textured, or both to increase the turbulence of the flow through the chamber. This present invention may be used for nebulizing and vaporizing fluids, powders and liquids for inhalation by a patient.

RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/040,666 entitled “FLUID PROCESSING SYSTEM ANDMETHOD” which was filed on Mar. 18, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,113,078,and which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to fluid vaporizing and homogenizing devices, tosystems for vaporizing and homogenizing fluids, and more particularly tomedical devices and systems for producing finely homogenized orvaporized gas-phase fluid mixtures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many types of devices have been developed over the years for the purposeof converting liquids or aerosols into gas-phase fluids. Many suchdevices have been developed to prepare fuel for use in internalcombustion engines. To optimize fuel oxidation within an engine'scombustion chamber, the fuel/air mixture commonly must be furthervaporized or homogenized to achieve a chemically-stoichiometricgas-phase mixture. Ideal fuel oxidation results in more completecombustion and lower pollution.

More specifically, relative to internal combustion engines,stoichiometricity is a condition where the amount of oxygen required tocompletely burn a given amount of fuel is supplied in a homogeneousmixture resulting in optimally correct combustion with no residuesremaining from incomplete or inefficient oxidation. Ideally, the fuelshould be completely vaporized, intermixed with air, and homogenizedprior to entering the combustion chamber for proper oxidation.Non-vaporized fuel droplets generally do not ignite and combustcompletely in conventional internal and external combustion engines,which presents problems relating to fuel efficiency and pollution.

Another problem, different from applications of vortex technology tointernal combustion engines, relates to the extreme vaporization neededfor various medications administered via inhalers. An inhaler typicallyproduces a liquid/gas mixture of the medication for inhaling directlyinto the lungs. Problems have arisen, however, in that the high degreeof vaporization required for directly passing the medication through thelungs into the bloodstream has been difficult to achieve. That is,excess amounts of the medication remain liquefied, rather than beingfurther broken down into smaller molecular size particles, for passingimmediately through the lungs into the bloodstream. A need exists,therefore, to develop certain vaporization devices that will furthervaporize and homogenize liquid/gas mixtures into a vapor of sufficientlysmall vapor particles for administering medication directly into thebloodstream via the lungs.

Prior art devices have employed vortex chambers wherein fluid isintroduced into a gas passing through a cylindrical chamber with avortex action. These vortex chambers have smooth, cylindrical innerwalls. A smooth vortex chamber inner wall construction may limit thedegree of turbulence within a given chamber and the effective rate ofvaporization within the vortex chambers.

Another perceived shortcoming of prior devices is their inability tocompensate for differential pressures at the various inlets leading tothe vortex chamber. As the gas/fluid mixture passes through the variousvortex chambers, additional gas is tangentially added in each chamberwhich causes a pressure differential at the various inlets. By supplyingambient air at all of these inlets to the vortex chamber, it has beendifficult to maintain an optimal gas-to-fluid ratio as the mixturepasses through the vortex chambers.

Yet another aspect of the pressure differential problem associated withprior known devices is that there is a tendency for the vortex chamberspositioned closer to the low pressure end of the flow path (for example,closer to the engine manifold) to dominate the other vortex chambers byreceiving substantially more flow. This tendency is particularlynoticeable and problematic during periods of engine acceleration. As thevortex chambers closer to low pressure end of the flow path dominate theother vortex chambers, the effectiveness of the other vortex chambers issignificantly reduced.

The prior centrifuge vaporization devices also have certain limitations,such as being too voluminous, failing to effectively introduce fluidinto the centrifuge chamber tangentially, unnecessarily inhibiting thedrawing power of the engine manifold vacuum, and unevenly dischargingthe centrifuge contents into the engine manifold.

Yet another problem concerning prior cyclone vaporization devices isthat they have failed to appreciate or utilize the advantages associatedwith adjustable vortex chamber output ports and adjacent chambers ofdifferent diameters.

In view of the foregoing, there is a need to develop a centrifugalvortex system that solves or substantially alleviates theabove-discussed limitations associated with known prior devices. Thereis a need to develop a centrifugal vortex system with a vortex chamberthat enables a more optimal turbulent flow, that more completely breaksdown liquid into smaller sized particles of vapor fluid, and thatnormalizes the flow through the various apertures formed in the vortexchamber housing. There is a further need to provide a centrifugal vortexsystem that more optimally premixes air and fuel prior to introducingthe air/fuel mixture into the vortex chamber. Another need exists toprovide a low-volume centrifuge apparatus that more optimally mixes,vaporizes, homogenizes, and discharges more minutely sized molecularvapor particles into an engine manifold, from an inhaler-type medicinaladministration device, and to/from other desired applications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide a vortex chamber thatenables a more optimal turbulent flow and which substantially eliminatesthe formation of liquid orbital rings on the inner walls within thevortex chamber.

Another object of the invention is to provide a vortex chamber housingwith a stepped inner wall surface for increasing the turbulence of fluidflowing through the vortex chamber.

Another object of the invention is to provide a vortex chamber housingwith an irregular or textured inner wall surface for increasing theturbulence of fluid flowing through the vortex chamber.

Another object of the invention is to provide a pressure differentialsupply, such as a tapered air-feed channel formed perhaps by a jacket,to equalize the amount of flow entering several input apertures formedin a vortex chamber.

Another object of the invention is to provide a series of tangentiallyoriented baffles associated with a centrifuge chamber to form a seriesof tangential passageways into the centrifuge chamber to enhance thecentrifugal flow of fluid in the centrifuge chamber.

Another object of the invention is to increase turbulence within thevortex chamber by reducing the chamber volume and by employing acentrifuge vertical wall with a height less than the maximum insidediameter of an associated venturi.

Another object of the invention is to provide a more optimal turbulencewithin a vortex chamber and to achieve improved vaporization by causinga vortical flow to spin in alternative, opposite spin directions as thevortical flow passes from one vortex chamber to an adjacent vortexchamber.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a device forbreaking down a vapor/gaseous mixture into more minute sized particleson a molecular scale for medical applications. Still another object ofthe invention is to produce a device that allows a vapor/liquid mixtureto be broken down into extremely small sized particles such that theparticles pass immediately and directly through the lungs into aperson's bloodstream.

In one embodiment, the inner wall of the vortex chamber housing isstepped or textured, or both, to enhance the turbulence of a flowthrough the vortex chamber. In another embodiment, several stages ofvortex chambers are used.

In still another embodiment, a deceleration chamber is fluidly coupledto at least one vortex chamber, the deceleration chamber to allow thegas/fluid mixture to fully homogenize, and also allows for separationwhen the present invention is used for fluid separation, for exampledesalinization.

Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description of the invention withreference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below withreference to the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1 is a top sectional view of a centrifugal vortex system accordingto the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a side sectional view taken along line 2—2 of FIG. 1, of thecentrifugal vortex system;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged breakaway sectional view of a portion of thevaporizing section of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the injector plate of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line 5—5 of FIG. 4 of theinjector plate;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the injector plate of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of a vortexconfiguration according to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a bottom sectional view taken along line 8—8 of FIG. 7 of thedifferential inlet supply configuration to a vortex chamber assembly;

FIG. 9 is a side sectional view taken along line 9—9 of FIG. 8 of thedifferential inlet supply configuration to a vortex housing assembly;

FIG. 10 is a top view of the differential inlet supply configuration toa vortex housing assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a bottom sectional view of an alternative embodiment of adifferential inlet supply configuration to a vortex chamber assemblyaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a side sectional view, taken along line 12—12 of FIG. 11, ofthe differential inlet supply configuration to a vortex chamberassembly;

FIG. 13 is a top view of the differential inlet supply configuration forthe vortex chamber assembly of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a vortexchamber housing according to the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a sectional view of yet another alternative embodiment of avortex housing according to the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a sectional view of still another alternative embodiment of avortex chamber housing according to the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of yet another alternative embodiment of avortex chamber housing according to the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a sectional side elevation view of an alternative embodimentof a venturi according to the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a partial cross-sectional view, taken along the line 25—25 ofFIG. 18, of an alternate embodiment of a venturi according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 20 is a sectional side elevation view of still another alternateembodiment of a centrifugal vortex system for vaporizing a fluidaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 21 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a sectional side elevation view of still another alternateembodiment of a multi-stage centrifugal vortex system for vaporizing afluid according to the present invention;

FIG. 23 is a sectional side exploded view of still another alternateembodiment of a single-stage centrifugal vortex system for vaporizing afluid according to the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a sectional side elevation view of still another alternateembodiment of a single-stage centrifugal vortex system for vaporizing afluid according to the present invention;

FIG. 25A-C is a bottom, side, and top view of the input mixer of theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 24;

FIG. 26A-C is a bottom, side, and top view of the processor of theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 24; and

FIG. 27A and B is a sectional side elevation view of alternate nozzlesof the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 24.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the context of this document, the terms “homogenize” or “vaporize” orany derivative of these terms means to convert a liquid from an aerosolor vapor-phase to a gas-phase by vorticular turbulence where highvelocity, low pressure, and high vacuum conditions exist, i.e., wheredifferential pressures exist.

FIGS. 1-6 show a first embodiment of a centrifugal vortex system 30according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the centrifugalvortex system 30 has three sections: a fuel vaporizing section 32, amain air section 34, and a centrifuge section 36. The fuel vaporizingsection 32 is illustrated as having two fuel injectors 38 mounted inbores 40 formed in an injector plate 42. The fuel injectors 38 maycomprise conventional electronic fuel injectors and preferably have aspray angle of about 30°.

A preliminary mixing chamber 44 is formed in the fuel vaporizing section32, into which fuel is sprayed by the output ports 46 of the fuelinjectors 38. Ambient air is also introduced into the preliminary mixingchamber 44 through an ambient air conduit 50 and is to be mixed withfuel sprayed by the fuel injectors 38. The preliminary mixing chamber 44is defined in part by an exterior surface 52 of a vortex chamber housing54 and the exterior surface 68 of a tapered extension 58. Thepreliminary mixing chamber 44 is further defined by the interior surface56 of a pressure differential supply jacket 60. The purpose and functionof the jacket 60 and the vortex chamber housing 54 are discussed in moredetail below.

The vortex chamber housing 54 comprises the exterior surface 52, aninner chamber wall surface 62, and a bottom surface 63. Additionally,the vortex chamber housing 54 includes the tapered extension 58 toenhance the flow of fluid in the preliminary mixing chamber 44, and isto be secured to the injector plate 42 by set screw 48 (FIG. 3) insertedthrough bore 49. The vortex chamber inner chamber wall surface 62defines a vortex chamber 64 in which a vortical flow of fluid iscreated. The vortex chamber housing 54 has an array of apertures 66journalled into the housing at an angle to allow the input of fluid,such as an air/fuel mixture, tangentially into the vortex chamber 64. Avortex chamber top edge 61 abuts a jacket top inside surface 55.Advantageously, a conventional gasket (not shown) may be interposedbetween the edge 61 and the top surface 55 to prevent fluid from leakinginto the vortex chamber 64 between the edge 61 and the surface 55.

As shown in FIG. 3, the array of apertures 66 are arranged in aplurality of rows R and in a plurality of columns C about the vortexchamber 64 to enhance the turbulence of the vortical flow through thechamber 64. Preferably, the rows R and the columns C arecircumferentially staggered or offset relative to each other. Byorienting the array of apertures 66 in staggered rows and columns, thetendency for the fluid within the vortex chamber 64 to separate intodiscrete orbital rings is eliminated or at least substantiallyalleviated. Additionally, this aperture orientation significantlyenhances the degree of turbulence (and thus the efficiency ofvaporization) within a given vortex chamber.

A pressure differential supply configuration is formed by a taperedjacket 60 positioned around the vortex chamber housing 54. As shown, thejacket 60 includes a variable thickness portion 75 which provides anincreasing diameter to the tapered inside surface 56. The jacket 60terminates at edge 57. The jacket 60 also includes an output port 70through which fluid flows after being processed in the vortex chamber64. The output port 70 is defined by a cylindrical surface 71 whichintersects the jacket top surface 55 at rounded corner 73. The diameterof the jacket interior surface 56 is illustrated as being smallest atthe end closest to the jacket output port 70. The diameter of the jacketinterior surface 56 gradually increases from that point toward the edge57. While the variable diameter surface is illustrated as generallycomprising the tapered inside surface 56, it is appreciated that astepped inside surface may also be effectively employed.

The variable diameter jacket interior surface 56, when positioned aroundthe vortex chamber housing 54, defines a variable width gap 72 betweenthe jacket interior surface 56 and the vortex chamber housing exteriorsurface 52. As shown in FIG. 3, the variable width gap has a smallerwidth at d₁ and a larger width at d₂. The variable width gap 72 createsa variable pressure differential across the apertures 66 formed in thevortex chamber housing 54 and restricts the flow through the apertures66 closer to the port 70 more than the apertures 66 located farther fromthe port 70. Thus, a differential pressure of fluid is provided at thevarious input apertures 66 according to the location of the aperturesrelative to the jacket output port 70. In operation, the apertures 66closest to output port 70 will be provided with more pressure becausethis end comprises the lower pressure end of the fuel vaporizing section32.

By positioning a variable pressure supply configuration, such as thejacket 60, around the apertures 66 formed in the chamber housing 54, theamount of fluid flow entering the various apertures 66 is substantiallyequalized. Having a substantially equalized flow of fluid through thevarious apertures 66 enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of thevortex chamber 64.

The jacket 60 and the vortex chamber housing 54 are illustrated in FIG.1 as being mounted within a fuel vaporizing housing 74 having aninterior surface 76. Specifically, a top outside surface 79 (FIG. 3) ofthe jacket 60 is positioned adjacent to a top inside surface 77 of thehousing 74. The ambient air conduit 50, discussed above, is defined bythe fuel vaporizing housing interior surface 76 and the exterior surface68 of the tapered extension 58.

The injector plate 42 is shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6. The injectorplate 42 includes a pair of bores 40 formed through the bottom surface47 to receive the fuel injectors 38 (FIG. 1). The injector plate 42further includes a first shoulder 39 and a second shoulder 41 (FIGS. 4and 5). The first shoulder 39 abuts a connecting member 43 and thesecond shoulder 41 abuts the jacket edge 57 (FIG. 1). A cylindricalcenter extension 45 abuts and is connected to the tapered extension 58(FIG. 1) via the set screw 48.

The main air section 34, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, comprises amain air housing 80, a venturi body 82, and a conventional butterflythrottle plate 84. An air intake opening 86 is positioned at one end ofthe main air section 34. The air intake opening 86 leads to an interiorcylindrical portion 90 having an annular inside surface 92.

The conventional throttle plate 84 is pivotally secured within theinterior cylindrical portion 90. The throttle plate 84 is secured to arotatable central shaft 96, which is oriented transverse to thedirection of air flow F through the hollow interior 90. Rotation of theshaft 96 will adjust an inclination angle of the throttle plate 84within the hollow interior 90, thereby changing the volume of air andthus the air/fuel mixture admitted to the engine.

An ambient air channel 100 is formed in the main air intake housing 80.The air channel 100 is in fluid communication with a slot 94 formed inthe main air intake housing 80. Sequential ambient air conduits 102 and50 allow air to pass through the channel 100 and the slot 94 into thepreliminary mixing chamber 44.

A venturi 82 is mounted within the main air section 34 and comprises aninput 104, a plurality of elongated apertures 106, and a venturi output110. Additionally, the venturi 82 includes a venturi exterior surface112 and a venturi interior surface 114. As shown, the diameter of theventuri interior surface 114 is maximized at the venturi input 104 andat the venturi output 110. The diameter of the venturi interior surface114 is approximately the same at the venturi input 104 and at theventuri output 110. In contrast, the diameter of the venturi interiorsurface 114 is minimized at the venturi throat 116. An annular step isformed on the venturi interior surface 114 adjacent to the venturithroat 116.

The main air intake section 34 also includes a transverse annular edge122 (FIGS. 1 and 2) which intersects the annular inside surface 92 at anannular outside corner 124. The edge 122 also intersects an annularsurface 126 at an annular inside corner 130. The annular surface 126also intersects with a transverse edge 132 at an annular corner 134. Theventuri 82 is positioned within the main air section adjacent to theannular surface 126 by securing the exterior surface 112 of the venturi82 to the annular surface 126 by adhesion, by an interference fit, or byany other conventional manner.

An intermediate mixing chamber 136 (FIG. 1) is formed in the main airintake section 34 to cause a spinning column of fluid exiting the jacketoutput port 70 to enfold and to mix turbulently prior to entering theventuri 82 through the elongated apertures 106. The intermediate mixingchamber 136 serves to further vaporize and homogenize the fluid. Theintermediate mixing chamber is defined by the annular surface 126 andthe transverse annular surface 140 which intersect at corner 142. Thecentrifuge section 36 is attached to the main air section 34 at thetransverse edge 132.

Fluid discharged from the venturi output 110 passes into the centrifugesection 36 through an intake opening 144. The centrifuge section 36generally comprises a centrifuge housing 142, the intake opening 144, anentry chamber 146, a series of baffles 150 oriented tangentiallyrelative to a centrifuge chamber 152, and a plurality of outputpassageways 154. As shown, the centrifuge housing is a generallycylindrical configuration comprising an annular vertically directed wallsurface 156 which is interrupted by the intake opening 144. The wallsurface 156 is formed integrally with a top wall 160 (FIG. 2).

As shown in FIG. 2, a hub portion 162 extends down from the centrifugetop wall 160. The hub portion 162 has an inner surface 164 and anexterior surface 165, both of which are shown as being substantiallyparabolic in shape. As discussed in further detail below, the hubportion 162 substantially reduces the volume of the centrifuge chamber152 and enhances the circular, centrifugal flow of fluid about the hubportion within the centrifuge chamber 152.

Opposite the top wall 160, a contoured bottom insert 166 is positionedwithin the centrifuge chamber 152. The contoured bottom insert 166comprises a contoured top surface 170 and a contoured bottom surface172. The contoured top surface has an annular flat portion 174, anupward directed curved portion 176, and a conically shaped centralportion 180. As shown, each output 154 includes an output opening 182formed in the conically shaped portion 180.

As mentioned above, the centrifuge 136 also includes the series oftangentially oriented baffles 150 positioned within the entry chamber146. Each baffle 150 comprises leading edge 184, and an intermediatecorner 186 as well as a rounded trailing end 190. A leading flat surface192 is formed between the leading edge 184 and the corner 186. A flatsurface 194 is formed between the leading edge 184 and the trailing end190. Lastly, a surface 196 is formed between the corner 186 and thetrailing end 190.

The baffles 150 are aligned relative to one another so as to create aplurality of tangential fluid flow passageways 200 formed between thesurfaces of adjacent baffles 150. Additionally, a tangential passageway202 is formed between the surface 194 of a baffle 150 adjacent to thevertically oriented wall 206 of the entry chamber 146. Moreover, atangential passageway 204 is formed between the surface 192 of a baffleadjacent to a vertical wall 210 of the entry chamber 146.

As shown in FIG. 1, each trailing flat surface 194 is oriented at atangential angle relative to the annular wall 156 of the centrifugesection 36. Accordingly, the flow of fluid introduced into thecentrifuge chamber 152 through the passageways 200, 202, and 204 isintroduced in a direction substantially tangent to the annular wall 156to enhance the circular and centrifugal flow of fluid in the chamber152.

To secure the centrifuge housing 142 to an engine manifold (not shown),mounting locations 212, 214, and 216 are formed in the centrifugehousing to permit fasteners, such as bolts 180 (FIG. 2) to secure thecentrifuge housing 142 to the engine via an interface plate 143.

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention.This embodiment shows a vortex chamber assembly 220 which generallycomprises conventional electronic fuel injectors 222, a first vortexchamber housing 224, and subsequent vortex chamber housings 226, 228,230, and 232. In this configuration, the chamber housings 226-232 eachreceive a flow of fluid exclusively from the preceding chamber housing.For example, the chamber housing 228 receives fluid exclusively from theoutput of chamber housing 226 and so on.

The fuel injectors 222 are mounted within bores 234 formed in aninjector plate 236. Each fuel injector includes an output port 240 whichsprays fuel into a preliminary mixing chamber 242. Ambient air isintroduced into the preliminary mixing chamber 242 via an ambient airconduit 244. The preliminary mixing chamber 242 and the ambient airconduit 244 are configured and function in a manner similar to theconfiguration and function of the preliminary mixing chamber 44 and theambient air conduit 50 illustrated in FIG. 1.

The chamber housings 224, 226, 228, 230, and 232 respectively definevortex chambers 248, 250, 252, 254, and 256. The vortex chambers 224-232each have an array of apertures 260-268. Each array of apertures 260-268are arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns in amanner similar to that illustrated in FIG. 3. Moreover, each array ofapertures 260-268 are arranged in a staggered configuration so as toenhance the turbulence of a vertical flow through the respective vortexchamber 248-256.

Pressure differential supply inlets are formed by tapered jackets 272,274, 276, 278, and 280 positioned about the chamber housings 224, 226,228, 230, and 232, respectively. Each functions in a manner similar tothe jacket 60 described in connection with FIG. 1. Each of the jackets272-280 has a respective interior surface 284, 286, 288, 290, 292. Thejacket interior surfaces 284-292 each comprises a constant diameterportion 296, 298, 300, 302, 304, respectively, and a variable diameterinterior surface portion 308, 310, 312, 314, 316, respectively. Eachchamber housing 224, 226, 228, 230, 232 has a respective exteriorsurface portion 318, 320, 322, 324, 326. The jackets form variably sizedgaps 330, 332, 334, 336, 338 between the surfaces 330-338 and thesurfaces 308-316, respectively. As such, the variable spaced gaps allowa differential pressure of fluid at the various apertures 260-268according to the location of the apertures 260-268 and function in amanner similar to the gap 72 (FIGS. 1 and 2).

Additionally, each jacket 272-280 has a respective output port 340-348which is in fluid communication with the subsequent vortex chamber.FIGS. 8-10 illustrate the jacket 278 vortex chamber 254 in greaterdetail. Each of the output ports 340-348 is in the form of a U-shapedslot represented by reference numeral 349 in FIGS. 9 and 10. The outputports 340-346 are in fluid communication with subsequent mixing chambers350, 352, 354, and 356, respectively, so that the apertures 262-268receive a fluid mixture exclusively from the output ports 340-346 tomaintain a substantially constant air second fluid mixture as noadditional air is introduced into the fluid stream as the fluid streampasses through the vortex chambers 250-256. Moreover, to enhance themixing and vortical nature of the flow through the mixing chambers 242,350, 352, 254, and 356, each chamber housing 224-232 has a conicallytapered base portion 358.

Apertures 368 are formed in the jackets 274-280 for receiving fasteners(not shown), such as conventional set screws, to secure the jacket lowerportions 370 to a preceding jacket's upper portion 372 or to avaporizing housing 374.

FIGS. 11-13 illustrate an alternate embodiment of a jacket-chamberassembly for use in a plurality of vortex chamber configurations such asthat illustrated in FIG. 7. Specifically, a jacket 376 is illustrated ashaving a constant diameter inside surface 377, a variable diameterinside surface 378, an output port 379, and output apertures 381. Thechamber housing 383 is shown as having a plurality of apertures 385formed at an angle therein and leading tangentially into a vortexchamber 387. A variably spaced gap 389 is formed between the interiorsurface 378 of housing 376 and the exterior surface 391 of the vortexchamber 383.

FIG. 14 shows another alternative embodiment of a vortex chamberaccording to the present invention. A chamber housing 380 having anexterior surface 382 and an inner chamber wall 384 defines a vortexchamber 386. To increase the turbulence of a vortical flow within thechamber 386, and to break down into smaller particles any non-vaporizedparticles in the vortical flow, steps 388 are formed on the innerchamber wall 384. As shown, each step 388 comprises a ramp surface 390and a transverse surface 392. A plurality of apertures ramp 394 areformed in the housing 380 and intersect the inner chamber wall 384 attransverse surfaces 392. As a fluid flows through the vortex chamber386, the steps 388 cause relatively small eddies to be created adjacentto the various transverse surfaces 392 which enhances the turbulence ofthe flow through the chamber 386.

As an alternative or additional manner of increasing the turbulence of avortical flow within the chamber 386, and to break down into smallerparticles any non-vaporized particles in the vortical flow as well asenhance the vaporization of the non-vaporized particles, the innerchamber wall 384 may comprise a textured surface. The textured orirregular surface may be formed by heavy grit sand blasting or applyinga type of glass beading. A textured or irregular inner chamber wallsurface will tend to cause fluid to flow through the chamber 386 in amore turbulent manner. When non-vaporized particles collide with thetextured inner chamber wall surface, the non-vaporized particles willspread apart, break down into smaller particles, and vaporize morereadily as compared to a smooth inner wall surface.

FIG. 15 illustrates still another alternative embodiment of a vortexchamber assembly according to the present invention. A chamber housing570 comprises an exterior surface 572 and interior surfaces 574, 576,578, 580, and 582. The interior surfaces 574-582 are each substantiallycylindrical and define, respectively, vortex chambers 584, 586, 588,590, and 592.

Apertures 594 are formed tangentially, in an array with offset columnsand rows, in the chamber housing 570 to allow the input of fluidtangentially into each vortex chamber 584-592. This tangential input offluid creates a turbulent vortical flow of fluid through the vortexchambers which breaks down the fluid into smaller particles andvaporizes remaining liquid particles in the vortical flow. The apertures594, as shown, are arranged in a plurality of rows and in a plurality ofcolumns, preferably staggered relative to one another, to furtherenhance the turbulent nature of the flow through the chambers 584-592.

A cylindrical output flange 596 comprises an exterior surface 598 and aninterior surface 600. The output flange is attached to an upstream end602 of the chamber housing 570. The interior surface 600 defines theoutput from vortex chamber 584 of the vortex chamber housing 570. Asillustrated, the vortex chambers 584-592 have sequentially decreasingdiameters. That is, the diameter of the inside surface 582 is smallerthan the diameter of inside surface 580, which is, in turn, smaller thanthe inside surface of surface 576, which is smaller than the insidesurface 574. Given this configuration, as the fluid passes through thechambers 584-592 in a vortical flow having a low pressure end at theoutput 604 and a high pressure end adjacent to an upstream end 606, thetendency for the chambers closest to the low pressure end (chambers 584and 586) to receive more flow through the apertures 594 than thechambers closest to the high pressure end 604 (chambers 590 and 592) issignificantly reduced.

Additionally, to enhance the vaporization of a fluid as it passesthrough the chambers 584-592, appropriately sized nozzles 608 (FIG. 15)are positioned at an upstream end of each of the chambers 584, 586, 588,and 590, respectively. The nozzles 608 cause the fluid passing throughthe vortex chambers to be subjected to additional pressuredifferentials, thus enhancing the vaporization and break down of fluidparticles. The nozzles 608 are preferably sized so as to be securedwithin the upstream end of the chambers 584-590 by a press-fitattachment.

FIG. 16 discloses a yet additional embodiment of the present invention.As shown, FIG. 16 discloses a vortex configuration 611 comprising achamber housing 612 having an exterior surface 614 and interior surfaces616, 618, 620, 622, and 624. The internal surfaces 616-624 aresubstantially cylindrical and respectively define vortex chambers 626,628,630, 632, and 634. Apertures 636 are formed tangentially relative tointerior surfaces 616-624 of the vortex chambers 626-634. The apertures636 are formed in an array in the chamber housing 612 to allow the inputof fluid tangentially into the vortex chambers 626-634. This tangentialinput of fluid creates a vortical flow through the vortex chamber forbreaking down into smaller particles and further vaporizing orhomogenizing liquid particles in the vortical flow.

A cylindrical output flange 640 is attached to an end 642 of the chamberhousing 612. The output flange 640 comprises an interior surface 644 andan exterior surface 646. An output port 648 is defined by the outputflange interior surface 644. The output flange 640 is similar to theoutput flange 596 (FIG. 17) except that the diameter of the insidesurface 644 is smaller than that of the inside diameter 600 (FIG. 17).Additionally, the output flange 640 includes an aperture 650, throughwhich a screw (not shown) can be selectively inserted as a way to adjustthe flow resistance through the output member 640. The more the screw isadvanced into the output port 648, the more air resistance is impartedto the vortical flow as the vortical flow passes through the output port648.

In general, the air resistance through a vortex configuration can bevaried by changing the diameter of the output aperture and/or changingthe diameter of the passageways between adjacent vortex chambers withinthe vortex configuration. The embodiment of FIG. 15 shows a relativelylarge output and relatively small passageways between adjacent vortexchambers due to the nozzles 608. Conversely, the embodiment of FIG. 16shows a smaller output and larger passageways between chambers. In someapplications it has been found that the embodiment illustrated in FIG.16 is preferable to the embodiment of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 shows yet another alternate embodiment of a vortex chamberhousing according to the present invention. This embodiment shows avortex chamber housing 940 generally comprising a bottom wall 942 and aperpendicularly extending cylindrical wall 944. The cylindrical wall 944comprises an inside surface 946, a top edge 947, and an outside surface948. A vortex chamber 952 is defined by the inside surface 946 and thebottom wall 942. The vortex chamber housing 940 may be used in a mannersimilar to that of the vortex chamber housing 54 illustrated in FIG. 1and described above.

A series of elongated tangential slots 950 are formed through the wall944 from the outside surface 948 to the inside surface 946 fordelivering a fluid tangentially into the vortex chamber 952 relative tothe vortical flow of fluid inside the chamber. Each slot 950 is shown asextending without interruption from the top edge 947 of the wall 944 tothe chamber housing bottom wall 942. The slots 950 are orientedtangentially to the inside cylindrical surface 946 of the annular wall944 to permit fluid to be introduced tangentially to the vortical flowinto the vortex chamber 952 of the vortex chamber housing 940.

Introducing fluid tangentially into the chamber 952 through theelongated slots 950 creates a continuous sheet of moving fluid passingrapidly across the vortex chamber interior surface 946 adjacent therespective slots 950. This substantially prevents any non-vaporizedparticles within the flow of fluid from congregating on the interiorsurface 946. As droplets of non-vaporized fluid particles approach orcontact the inside surface 946, such nonvaporized particles are blownaway from the inside surface by new fluid-flow particles entering thevortex chamber 952 through the slots 950. Any number of slots 950 may beemployed to achieve the desired results. Additionally, different widthsof the slots 950 may be used. The slots 950 may be formed in the annularwall 944 with a laser, a circular saw, or by any other suitable method.As one example, slots 950 may have a width of approximately 0.01 inches.

FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate another alternate embodiment of a venturiaccording to the present invention. This embodiment shows a venturi 954comprising a housing 956 and a series of tangential apertures 958 formedin the housing 956. The tangential apertures extend from a housingexterior surface 955 to a housing interior surface 957. The apertures958 are formed tangentially in the housing 956 to permit fluid, such asan air/fuel mixture, to be inserted into the venturi interior 960tangentially through the apertures 958 to enhance the turbulence of theflow through the venturi 954.

As shown, the tangential apertures 958 are formed within a narrow throatportion 959 of the venturi 954. In the narrow throat portion 959, thespeed of the fluid F passing through the venturi 954 is at a maximum. Byintroducing a second fluid tangentially into the venturi interior 960through the tangential apertures 958 in the narrow throat portion 959,the turbulence and mixing of the two fluids is enhanced. Delivery of thesecond fluid tangentially into the venturi interior 960 through thetangential apertures 958 causes the flow through the venturi interior960 to spin, thus increasing the turbulence of the flow. The enhancedturbulence of the flow through the venturi 954 further enhances thevaporization and homogenization of the fluid passing through the venturi954. Accordingly, as the fluid flow F passes through the venturi fromthe venturi entrance 962 to the venturi 964, the flow is intersected bya tangential flow of a second fluid, such as an air/fuel mixture,entering the venturi interior 960 through the tangential apertures 958to create a turbulent, and substantially helical, flow through theventuri 954.

FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate a yet additional alternative embodiment ofthe present invention, specifically in relation to uses in the field ofinhaler-type medications. This embodiment shows a fluid vaporizationsystem 1120 generally comprising a compressible container 1122, a supplyof pressurized gas 1124, a venturi 1126, a plurality of vortex chamberhousings 1128, 1244, 1248, 1250, 1252, 1254, 1256, 1258, and a systemoutput 1128. Generally, by introducing pressurized gas into the system1120, a fluid flow 1130 is forced out of the compressible container 1122and is caused to flow through conduits 1132 and 1134 (formed in the base1136) and into the venturi 1126 (also formed in the base 1136). In theventuri 1126, the fluid 1130 is mixed with pressurized gas and isdischarged from the venturi 1136 as an aerosol through the venturioutlet opening 1138. The fluid then passes through a series of vortexchamber housings for breaking down into smaller particles and furthervaporizing any non-vaporized or partially vaporized particles in theflow. Lastly, the fluid is output from the system through the systemoutput 1128.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 21, the compressible container 1122 isillustrated as comprising a bag having a flexible side wall 1140 and aflexible base 1142. The flexible wall 1140 and flexible base 1142 definea hollow interior 1144 within the compressible container 1122. As thecompressible container 1122 is compressed, the volume of the hollowinterior of 1144 is reduced, thus increasing the pressure within thehollow interior 1144.

A compressible fluid container output port 1160 is defined by aninterior surface 1161 of a connector 1148. Advantageously, the connector1148 is formed of a pliable material, such as rubber. The connector 1148is coupled with the base 1136 via a barbed connector 1150. The barbedconnector 1150 is shown as comprising a threaded portion 1152, ashoulder 1154, and a barbed extension 1156. A raised barb 1158 is formedon the extension 1156 to allow a resistance or interference fit betweenthe barbed connector 1150 and the connector 1148 of the container. Thebarbed connector 1150 further comprises a passageway 1159 extending fromthe output port 1160 to the conduit 1132 to permit the fluid 1130 withinthe hollow interior 1144 of the compressible container 1122 to pass fromthe container 1122 into the conduit 1132. Accordingly, in the assembledconfiguration shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the threaded portion 1152 of theconnector 1150 is threadedly engaged with the base 1136.

The compressible container 1122 is, in turn, removably secured by aresistance or an interference fit with the barbed connector 1150 bypressing the pliable connector 1148 over the extension 1156 so that atight resistance or interference fit is created between the barbedextension 1156 and the interior surface 1161 of the connector 1148.

The compressible container 1122 is shown as being positioned within apressure chamber 1164 defined by an interior surface 1166 of a pressurehousing 1168. The pressure housing 1168 is secured to the base 1136 bythreads 1170 formed on one end of the pressure housing 1168 forthreadedly engaging the pressure housing 1168 with the base 1136. Tocreate a substantially airtight seal between the base 1136 and thehousing 1168, a gasket, such as an O-ring 1172, is positioned, andpreferably compressed, between a flange 1174 of the housing 1168 and acontact surface 1176 of the base 1136.

The pressure chamber 1164 is pressurized by receiving pressurized gasfrom the source of pressurized gas 1124 through a pressurized gasconduit 1178. The source of pressurized gas may advantageously becoupled with any of a variety of suitable devices, such as a pump ortank of pressurized gas. Further, the pressurized gas may comprise air,oxygen, nitrous oxide or any other suitable gas.

The pressurized gas conduit 1178 is shown as being formed in the base1136 and as extending from venturi inlet opening 1180 to the pressurechamber 1164. By passing pressurized gas through the conduit 1178 intothe pressure chamber 1164, the pressure within the pressure chamber 1164increases. This increase of chamber pressure causes the compressiblecontainer 1122 to compress, thus squeezing the fluid 1130 out of thecontainer 1122 through the output port 1160 and the connector passageway1159.

As shown in FIG. 21, the contents of the compressible container 1122 maycomprise liquefied fluid 1130 and, in some instances, an amount ofgas-phase fluid, such as air 1182. The system 1120 may be used tovaporize a wide range of fluids. In one embodiment, the liquefied fluid1130 to be vaporized comprises a medicinal preparation to beadministered to a patient by inhalation. Preferably, as the fluid exitsthe system through the system output 1128, only a small percentage ofthe non-vaporized fluid particles are greater than five microns in size.By vaporizing a fluid medicinal preparation by passing it through thesystem 1120, the medicinal preparation may be effectively administeredto a patient by inhalation.

A flow regulator or ball valve assembly 1184 is coupled to the fluidconduit 1132 extending from the output port 1160. The flow regulator1184 is shown as generally comprising a regulator housing 1186, a ball1188 which seats into an appropriately sized cavity, an adjustment screw1190, and a bias member 1192. The flow regulator housing 1186 isremovably secured to the base 1136 by a threaded engagement. As shown,the ball 1188 seats within a spherical opening 1194 formed in the base1136. The ball 1188 is biased against the spherical opening 1194 bymeans of a bias member 1192. As illustrated in FIG. 21, the bias member1192 may comprise a conventional coil spring. In this configuration, asthe pressure within the hollow interior 1144 of the compressiblecontainer 1122 increases, the pressure within the conduit 1132 increasescorrespondingly, thus overcoming the bias and pushing the ball 1188 awayfrom the spherical opening 1194 to permit fluid to pass by the ball 1188from the conduit 1132 into the conduit 1134.

The amount of pressure necessary to unseat the ball 1188 from thespherical opening 1194 may be adjusted by adjusting the compression ofthe bias member 1192. The compression, and thus the force exerted by thebias member 1192, is readily adjusted by advancing or withdrawing theadjustment screw 1190 relative to the housing 1186. The farther thescrew 1190 is advanced into the housing 1186, the more compressed thebias member 1192 will be and, consequently, the more pressure will berequired to unseat the ball 1188 to permit fluid to pass by theregulator assembly 1184. Conversely, as the screw 1190 is withdrawn fromthe housing 1186, the compression of the bias member 1192 is decreased,and thus a lesser pressure within the conduit 1132 will be required tounseat the sphere 1188.

The ball valve assembly 1184 is only one of many different regulatorsthat can be effectively used to control the flow of fluid between theconduits 1132 and 1134. It is to be understood that any suitable valveor other flow-regulating devices may be effectively employed.

In addition to supplying pressurized gas to the pressurized gas conduit1178, the source of pressurized gas 1124 also feeds pressurized gas intothe venturi 1126 through a venturi inlet opening 1180. The venturi 1126generally comprises the venturi inlet opening 1180, a venturi outletopening 1196, and a narrow throat portion 1198. The narrow throatportion 1198 is shown as being positioned between the venturi inletopening 1180 and the venturi outlet opening 1196.

As a flow F of pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source 1124passes through the venturi 1126, the narrow throat portion 1198 causesthe velocity of the pressurized gas to substantially increase. The highspeed of the gas through the venturi throat portion 1198 creates a lowpressure region at the venturi throat portion 1198. As shown, the narrowthroat portion 1198 is in fluid communication with the conduit 1134. Thelow pressure region at the narrow throat portion 1198 helps to drawfluid from the conduit 1134 into the high-speed, low-pressure gas flowthrough the venturi throat portion 1198. As the fluid 1130 passesthrough the conduit 1134 into the narrow throat portion 1198, the fluid1130 is mixed with the pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source1124. Because of the high velocity of the gas passing through the narrowthroat portion 1198 and the pressure differentials created by theventuri 1126, the fluid 1130 advantageously exits the venturi 1126through the venturi outlet opening 1196 as an aerosol.

After exiting the venturi 1126, the fluid is discharged into a mixingchamber 1200 through a plurality of apertures 1202 formed in a hollowboss 1204. As shown in FIG. 21, the boss 1204 is formed as one piecewith the base 1136 and comprises a hollow interior 1206 in fluidcommunication with the venturi outlet opening 1196. Thus, upon exitingthe venturi 1126 through the venturi outlet opening 1196, the fluidpasses into the mixing chamber 1200 through the apertures 1202 formed inthe boss 1204.

The mixing chamber 1200 is defined by a base exterior surface 1210, aninside surface 1212 of a tube 1214, and the exterior surface 1216 of theventuri chamber housing 1128. The vortex chamber housing 1128 isconfigured and functions in the same manner as the vortex chamberhousing 940 described above and illustrated in FIG. 17.

As shown in FIG. 21, the vortex chamber housing 1128 further comprisesan exterior bottom surface 1220 which is positioned adjacent to andabuts the boss 1204, causing the fluid passing through the boss hollowinterior 1206 to exit the hollow interior through the apertures 1202.After the flow F of fluid enters the mixing chamber 1200, the fluid nextpasses into the vortex chamber 1124 through tangential apertures 1220formed in the vortex chamber housing 1128. The tangential slots 1222 areidentical to the elongated tangential slots 950 described above andillustrated in FIG. 17. The tangential slots 1222 permit the fluid to bedirected tangentially into the vortex chamber 1224. Due to thetangential orientation of the slots 1222, the fluid is directedtangentially into the vortex chamber 1224 to create a vortical flow offluid within the vortex chamber 1224.

An output fixture 1230 is attached to the vortex chamber housing 1128for directing the fluid from the vortex chamber 1224 into a mixingchamber 1232. The output fixture 1230 is illustrated as being attachedto the vortex chamber housing 1128 by a press-fit attachment, but couldalso be secured to the vortex housing by a number of conventionalmethods.

The output fixture 1230 is shown in FIG. 21 as comprising a body 1234having an annular groove 1236 formed about the periphery of the body1234. A gasket, such as O-ring 1238, may be positioned within the groove1236 to prevent the fluid from passing directly from the mixing chamber1200 to the mixing chamber 1232 without passing through the vortexchamber 1224. The output fixture 1230 further comprises a hollowinterior 1240 and apertures 1242 for directing the fluid from the vortexchamber 1224 through the output fixture 1230 into the mixing chamber1232.

Upon exiting the output fixture 1230 through the apertures 1242, thefluid passes through the mixing chamber 1132 and through the vortexchamber housing 1244 in the same manner as the fluid passes through thevortex chamber housing 1128. Likewise, the fluid exits the vortexchamber housing 1244 through an output fixture 1246 which is configuredidentical to the output fixture 1230 discussed above and illustrated inFIG. 21. In this same manner, as shown in FIG. 20, the fluid passesthrough the vortex chambers 1248, 1250, 1252, 1254, 1256, and 1258 aswell as through output fixtures 1260, 1262, 1264, 1266, 1268, and 1270.As shown, the vortex chamber housings 1244, 1248, 1250, 1252, 1254,1256, and 1258 are each configured and function in a manner identical tothat of the vortex chamber housing 1128. Likewise, the output fixtures1246, 1260, 1262, 1264, 1266, 1268, and 1270 are configured and functionin a manner identical to that of the output fixture 1230 described aboveand illustrated in FIG. 21. Accordingly, no further description of thesefeatures is necessary.

Upon exiting the output fixture 1270 (FIG. 20), the fluid enters adischarge chamber 1272 defined by the output fixture 1270 and an insidesurface 1274 of an output housing 1276. As shown, the output housing1276 is rigidly secured to the tube 1214. The inside surface of theoutput housing 1276 while the discharge housing 1276 is illustrated asbeing attached to the tube 1214 by a press-fit attachment, the dischargehousing 1276 could also be affixed to the tube 1214 by a variety ofmethods, including adhesion or a threaded engagement

The discharge housing 1276 further comprises a plurality of outputchannels 1278 for passing the fluid from the discharge chamber 1272 intoa discharge orifice 1280. The discharge orifice 1280 further comprises athreaded portion 1282 to permit a conventional threaded connector suchas a hose nipple 1284 to be threaded into the discharge housing 1276 forreceiving fluid from the discharge aperture 1280. An output end 1285 ofthe conventional connector 1284 may conveniently be coupled to a varietyof fluid receiving devices, such as inhalation mouthpieces, or otherstructures for receiving a substantially vaporized flow of the fluid1130.

The operation of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-6 is describedbelow. Liquid, such as fuel, is electronically controlled, metered, andsprayed as an aerosol through the output ports 46 of the fuel injectors38 into the preliminary mixing chamber 44. While fuel is the fluidreferred to herein, other fluids, such as medicine and waste liquid mayalso be vaporized and homogenized using the devices and methodsdisclosed.

As fuel is sprayed into the preliminary mixing chamber 44, the throttleplate 84 opens to permit an amount of air to be input into the venturi82. The amount of air permitted to pass by the throttle plate 84 isproportional to the amount of fluid sprayed into the preliminary mixingchamber by the output ports 46 of the fuel injectors 38. Anengine-created vacuum pulls the fluid from the mixing chamber 44 throughthe apertures 66 formed in the chamber housing 54.

When the engine operates, a partial vacuum is produced in the engineintake manifold (not shown). With the throttle plate in a closedposition, the lower pressure air/fuel mixture in the preliminary mixingchamber 44 is drawn tangentially through the apertures 66 into thevortex chamber 64. Specifically, air for the vortex chamber isintroduced through the slot 94 and passes through the ambient airchannel 100 and the conduit 102 into the ambient air conduit 50. Fromthe ambient air conduit 50, ambient air is introduced into thepreliminary mixing chamber where the ambient air mixes with the aerosolfuel prior to entering the apertures 66 as an air/fuel mixture.

The air/fuel mixture is introduced substantially tangentially into thevortex chamber 64 where the fluid is rotationally accelerated due toincoming fluid through the apertures 66. The amount of fluid enteringthe various apertures 66 is substantially equalized by the presence ofthe jacket 60. The inside surface 56 of the jacket restricts the flow offluid entering the apertures according to the location of the aperturerelative to the output port 70, which comprises a low pressure end ofthe flow passing through the vortex chamber 64. Essentially, the jacketprovides a heightened restriction on apertures closer to the output port70 and a lesser, if any, restriction of the apertures farthest from thelow pressure end (output port 70).

Once the fluid is inserted into the vortex chamber 64, the fluid isrotationally accelerated, which causes any non-vaporized particles offluid within the flow to break down into smaller particles, to bevaporized, or both. When the fluid reaches the output port 70, the fluidpasses from the chamber 64 into the intermediate chamber 136 as aspinning column of fluid. In the intermediate chamber 136, the fluid isenfolded upon itself, thus breaking up the spinning column of fluid andcreating additional turbulence and homogenization of the flow.

The flow is then drawn by the partial vacuum created by the enginemanifold through the elongated apertures 106 of the venturi 82. Theelongated apertures 106 are significantly larger and more numerous thanconventional small circular venturi chamber apertures as they aredesigned to reduce any pressure drop and to enable a flow of up to 60CFM. In the venturi 82, the ambient air, admitted by the throttle plate84, is mixed with the air/fuel mixture as the air/fuel mixture entersthrough the apertures 106. The ambient air/fuel mixture is furthermixed, and at least partially homogenized, within the venturi 82.

The partial vacuum of the engine manifold next draws the fluid throughthe centrifuge intake opening 144 as the fluid enters the entry chamber146. The entry chamber serves to further mix and homogenize the fluidand to direct the fluid into the centrifuge chamber 152 tangentially.Specifically, the baffles 150 formed within the entry chamber 146 createa series of tangential passageways 200, 202, and 204 through which thefluid is tangentially drawn into the centrifuge chamber 152 by thepartial engine manifold vacuum.

In the centrifuge chamber 152, the fluid is rotationally acceleratedwhich causes the largest or heaviest particles to be moved, due to theirmass, toward the perimeter of the centrifuge chamber 152 where theseheavier, or more massive, particles collide with the interior surface156 and are further broken down and vaporized.

To reduce the volume of the centrifuge chamber 152, it is advantageousthat the height of the side wall 156 be smaller than the inside diameter114 of the venturi 82 at the venturi output 110. Additionally, to reducethe volume of the centrifuge chamber 152 and to enhance the centrifugalflow in the chamber 152, the extension member 162 extends from thecentrifuge housing top wall 160.

The fluid is then drawn into the four outputs 154 by the engine vacuum.As the lighter particles of the flow centrifugally advance toward thecenter of the centrifuge housing 152, they are directed, at an angle, bythe conically-shaped portion of the centrifuge contoured top surface 170into the apertures 182 formed in the conically-shaped portion 180 andinto the four outputs 154. By discharging the fluid from the centrifugechamber in the manner described, a more uniform hydrocarbon distributionis obtained due to the hydrocarbon's generally tendency to be positionedtowards the outside of the centrifugal flow in the centrifuge chamber.In contrast, where only one output port is employed, the centrifugedischarge is less uniform due to the tendency of hydrocarbons to bepositioned toward the outside of the centrifugal flow.

Turning now to the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 7,the vortex configuration 220 is supplied with aerosol fuel by fuelinjectors 222. The fuel injectors 222 spray fuel into a preliminarymixing chamber 242. Ambient air is also introduced into the preliminarymixing chamber 242 via the ambient air conduit 244. In the preliminarymixing chamber, the aerosol fuel and the ambient air are mixed so as toenter the vortex chamber 248 through the apertures 260 as an air/fuelmixture.

In a manner similar to the jacket 60 (FIG. 1), the jacket 272 serves asa pressure differential supply to normalize the amount of flow throughthe various apertures 260. The air/fuel mixture enters the vortexchamber 248 through the apertures 216 in a manner similar to thatdescribed in connection with the vortex chamber 54 and aperture 66 ofFIG. 1. As the air/fuel mixture exists the U-shaped output port 340, themixture enters into a mixing chamber 350 prior to entering the vortexchamber 250 through apertures 262. In this configuration, the apertures262 receive the air/fuel mixture exclusively from the output from thevortex chamber 248 to maintain a substantially constant air/fuel ratioas the air/fuel mixture passes through the chambers 248 and 250.

Subsequently, the air/fuel mixture exits the U-shaped output port 242and enters into mixing chamber 352 prior to entering the vortex chamber252 through apertures 264. Again, the air/fuel ratio of the air/fuelmixture remains substantially constant as the fluid passes through thevortex chambers 250 and 252.

After exiting the output port 344 of the chamber housing 228, the fluidcontinues to pass through the mixing chamber 354, apertures 266, andvortex chamber 254 in a manner identical to that described in connectionwith the vortex chamber 252. Upon exiting the U-shaped output port 346,the fluid enters the mixing chamber 356, passes through the apertures268 into the final chamber 256 prior to exiting the output port 348.

By passing through the five chambers 248-256, the fluid becomesincreasingly vaporized and transformed in a gaseous phase as it advancesfrom one chamber to the next. Accordingly, this embodiment permits anair/fuel mixture to pass through several vortex chambers whilemaintaining a substantially constant air/fuel ratio.

An alternate embodiment of a vortex chamber housing is illustrated inFIG. 17. In operation, the vortex chamber housing 940 receives fluidthrough the tangential slots 950 into the chamber interior 952 to createa vortical flow of fluid within the chamber interior 952. The elongatedslots 950 introduce the fluid tangentially into the chamber interior asa sheet of fluid along the interior surface 946 of the vortex chamberhousing to prevent liquid particles from congregating on the interiorsurface 946. As the fluid spins vertically within the chamber 952, thepressure differentials and the overall turbulence of the flow within thechamber 952 cause the fluid to be vaporized and homogenized.

FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a venturi 956formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Inoperation, the venturi 956 receives a flow of fluid through the venturiinlet opening 962. This flow of fluid is then mixed with an air/fuelmixture which enters the venturi interior 960 through tangentialapertures 958 formed in the wall 956 to create a helical flow of fluidthrough the venturi 954. Introducing the air/fuel mixture tangentiallyinto the venturi interior 960 causes the flow through the venturi 954 tospin helically. Advantageously, the air/fuel mixture is introduced inthe narrow throat portion 959 of the venturi interior 960 because thenarrow throat portion 959 comprises the region of fastest air flowwithin the venturi 954. By creating a helical flow of fluid through theventuri 956, the turbulence, and thus the vaporization andhomogenization, of the fluid is substantially enhanced.

As discussed above, FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate a yet additionalembodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, positive pressure isprovided into the system 1120 through a positive pressure source 1124which delivers gas, under pressure, into the venturi inlet opening 1180and into the pressurized gas conduit 1178. The pressurized gas passesthrough the pressurized gas conduit 1178 into the pressure chamber 1164.As the pressure within the pressure chamber 1164 increases due to thepressurized gas, the compressible container 1122 is compressed, thusreducing the volume and increasing the pressure of the container ofhollow interior 1144. As the compressible container 1122 is compressed,the fluid 1130 within the container 1122 is forced out of the container1122 through the output port 1160, through the passageway 1159, and intothe fluid conduit 1132.

The flow of fluid from the fluid conduit 1132 to the conduit 1134 iscontrolled by the regulator 1184. In the biased position illustrated inFIG. 21, the sphere 1188 is biased against the spherical seat 1194 toprevent fluid from flowing from the conduit 1132 to the conduit 1134. Asthe pressure within the conduit 1132 increases, however, the biasagainst the spherical seat 1194 is overcome and the sphere 1188 isdislodged from the spherical seat 1194 to permit the fluid to pass fromthe conduit 1132 to the conduit 1134.

The bias of the sphere 1188 against the spherical seat 1194 can beadjusted by advancing or withdrawing the screw 1190 within the housing1186. As the screw 1190 is advanced into the housing 1186, the spring1192 is compressed, thus increasing the bias on the sphere 1188.Conversely, as the screw 1190 is withdrawn from within the housing 1186,the spring 1192 is decompressed, thus reducing the amount of bias on thesphere 1188. With a reduced bias on the sphere 1188, a lesser pressurein the conduit 1132 is required to unseat the sphere 1188 and to enableflow from the conduit 1132 to the conduit 1134.

After passing by the regulator 1184, the fluid passes through theconduit 1134 and enters the venturi throat portion 1198 as an aerosol.As the pressurized gas passes through the venturi 1126, the velocity ofthe gas increases as it passes through the narrow throat portion 1198,thus creating a low pressure region at the narrow throat portion 1198.The low pressure associated with the high velocity flow through theventuri narrow throat portion 1198 helps to draw the fluid through theconduit 1134 into the narrow throat portion 1198.

In the venturi throat portion 1198, pressurized gas from the source ofpressurized gas 1124 is mixed with the fluid 1130. After mixing with thepressurized gas, the fluid exits the venturi 1126 through the venturioutlet opening 1196 as an aerosol. From the venturi outlet opening 1196,the fluid passes through apertures 1202 formed in the boss extension1204 and into the mixing chamber 1200. From the mixing chamber 1200,fluid enters the vortex chamber 1224 through the tangential slots 1222to create a vortical flow within the vortex chamber 1224 for breakingdown into smaller particles and vaporizing any non-vaporized particlesin the vortical flow.

The fluid then passes from the vortex chamber 1224 into the mixingchamber 1232 through the apertures 1242 formed in the output fixture1230. The fluid continues to pass through the subsequent vortex chamberhousings 1244, 1248, 1250, 1254, 1256, and 1258 as well as throughsubsequent output fixtures 1246, 1260, 1262, 1264, 1266, 1268, and 1270in the same manner as the fluid passes through the vortex chamberhousing 1128 and the output fixture 1230 respectively. The fluid isfurther homogenized and vaporized through each succeeding vortex chamberhousing.

Upon exiting the final output fixture 1270, the fluid passes through adischarge chamber 1272 and into the channels 1270 to supply the outputorifice 1280 with a supply of substantially vaporized fluid. Tofacilitate the delivery of the vaporized fluid to its final destination,the fluid may pass through a conventional hose connector 1284.

Another embodiment of the present invention related to vaporizing andnebulizing liquids for inhalation by a patient is shown in FIG. 22.Conceptually, the embodiment for this system 1300 comprises a pluralityof stages, with vortex chambers 1302-1308 having differingcharacteristics. In this embodiment, in the first stage the vortexchamber 1302 has apertures 1310 in parallel rows and columns. In thesecond and third stages, the vortex chambers 1304 and 1306 haveapertures 1312 that are staggered, similar to the apertures 66 of thevortex chamber 64 as shown in FIG. 3. In the final stage, the vortexchamber 1308 has slots 1314, similar to the tangential slots 950 asshown in FIG. 17.

For this embodiment 1300FIG. 22, the vortex chambers 1304 and 1306 forthe second and third stages have smaller apertures 1312 than theapertures 1310 of the first stage vortex chamber 1302. However, thetotal surface area of the apertures 1312 for each of the second andthird stages is the same as the total surface area of the apertures 1310of the first stage. This is due to the vortex chambers 1304 and 1306 ofthe second and third stages having more apertures. In other words,although the apertures 1312 are smaller, there are more apertures 1312.

In this embodiment, positive pressure 1318 is provided into the system1300 in the form of compressed gas or air, typically at 125 psi. Fluidis drawn in through opening 1320. The fluid includes the medicine to benebulized/vaporized, and can include an inert carrier such as salinesolution. Lateral openings 1316 permit the fluid to reach the outside ofthe vortex chamber 1302 and then enter through the apertures 1310. Thisis repeated for each stage (not shown).

Variations are possible with this embodiment, including greater or fewerstages, and different combinations of vortex chambers with differentaperture patterns 1310, 1312 and slots 1314. Another variation is aconfiguration in which the first stage creates a large pressure drop,and in the remaining stages each include slight pressure drops,resulting in the final output 1322 being close to atmospheric pressure.This can improve the processing efficiency.

Another variation with all embodiments is to include a heating process.Either the input air 1318 is heated, or the external surface of thesystem is heated to impart thermal energy to the air and fluid as theymove through each stage of the device. For example, for fluid separationpurposes such as desalinization, heating the system provides betterresults, depending on other factors including pressure and the number ofvortex chambers. This fluid separation ability is believed to be akinetic evaporative process, at least in relation the embodiment 1300 ofFIG. 22. The present invention can include one or several vortexchambers 1302-1308 which are easily removable to clean and flush offdeposited material. Alternatively, the entire system can be soaked, orforward or reverse flushed with fluid to clean out the device.

Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 23. Thisembodiment of the system 1330 comprises a single stage vortex chamber1340 with a pressure decreasing first section 1341 and a decelerationsecond section 1343. Compressed air 1318 enters through the intakenozzle 1332. A step down venturi stage 1334 is created by restrictingthe flow diameter 1336 to approximately 0.250″. Next is a step upventuri stage 1338 with a diameter of approximately 0.370″. The fluidenters this step up venturi stage 1338 through the fluid intake port1320, which has a diameter of approximately 0.0625″.

The air/fluid mixture then passes out of the first section 1341 andreaches the vortex chamber 1340. For this embodiment, the vortex chamber1340 includes apertures 1312 arranged in a staggered formation.Specifically, the vortex chamber 1340 has 40 apertures with a holediameter of approximately 0.035″, thereby creating a total surface areaof approximately 0.0385 square inches.

The air/fluid exits the vortex chamber 1340 through a step down venturi1342. This step down venturi 1342 has a venturi opening 1344 with adiameter of approximately 0.0995″.

The vortex chamber 1340 is positioned between two annular gaskets 1354and 1354′ which securely hold the vortex chamber in place in the system1330, and direct the flow of air/fluid through each section. The vortexchamber 1340 and one annular gasket 1354 slide inside the inside wall1346 of the deceleration second section 1343, as shown by arrow 1350.When in position, they are proximate and are held in place bypartitioning wall 1348, the vortex chamber 1340 is positioned inside ofdeceleration second section 1343.

The deceleration second section 1343 includes a deceleration chamber1352. When the air/fluid exits the vortex chamber 1340 through the stepdown venturi 1342, it comes out in a cone shaped swirl. The output 1322at the end of the deceleration chamber 1352 is the nebulized, atomizedor vaporized air/fluid mixture with super fine particles, atapproximately atmospheric pressure.

In this embodiment, the complete system 1330 is approximately 5.8″ long.The pressure decreasing first section 1341 is approximately 1.275″, andthe deceleration second section 1343 is approximately 4.6″ long. Thevortex chamber 1340 and annular gasket 1354, when positioned within thedeceleration second section 1343, extend approximately 1.6″ within thedeceleration second section 1343. The deceleration chamber 1352 isapproximately 3″ long. The deceleration second section 1343 has aninside diameter of approximately 1.375″.

Test results for this embodiment were conducted with saline solution asthe working fluid. Compressed air 1318 at 185 psi (18 cubic feet perminute) was provided through the intake nozzle 1332. A pressure drop tonear atmospheric pressure is achieved by the first step down venturistage 1334 and the second step down venturi 1342. This creates a 185 psipressure drop as the fluid leaves the vortex chamber 1340 and enters thedeceleration chamber 1352. An improvement in the amount of liquid theunit processes is observed, with processing approaching 3 ml per minute.The deceleration chamber 1352 also helps to function as a large particleseparator in the case when very fine particles are intermixed with largeparticles (for example, when nebulizing certain liquids). Thedeceleration chamber 1352 is very effective in separating these largerparticles. When the fluid exits the vortex chamber 1340, it comes out ina cone shaped swirl. The larger particles form a crust just ahead of theventuri opening 1344 (when running Saline). The output at the end of thechamber is just the super fine particles.

In using the embodiments of FIGS. 23 and 24 for fluid separation, it isbelieved the process includes a pneumatic/kinetic evaporative process.The single stage vortex chamber and venturi or nozzle createvortex-related sheer forces on the fluid, to reduce particle size andenhance separation.

Another embodiment of the present invention related to vaporizing andnebulizing liquids for inhalation by a patient is shown in FIG. 24. Thisembodiment 1360 is similar to the embodiment 1330 of FIG. 23 in that itincludes a single stage vortex processor (chamber) 1364, a step downnozzle 1368 and a deceleration chamber 1374. This embodiment 1360includes an air-gas input mixer section 1362, which is shown in detailin FIGS. 25A-C. The gas/fluid mixture passes through openings 1363,which have a radius of approximately 0.625″. The gas/fluid mixture flowsto vortex processor 1364, which is shown in detail in FIGS. 26A-C. Thevortex processor 1364 includes a single row of apertures 1366, whichpass tangentially through to the central chamber, as shown by 1367. Theaperture diameter is approximately 0.055″. The inner diameter of thechamber wall of the vortex processor 1364 is approximately 0.084″. Thevortex processor 1365 has an outside diameter 1361 of approximately 1″,an inner diameter 1369 of approximately 0.6250″, and a center feed 1335with a diameter of approximately 0.0460″. Of course, all sizes andopenings may be varied to enhance preferred performance of the presentinvention.

As the air/fluid mixture passes through the vortex processor 1364, itenters a venturi chamber 1370 defined by the nozzle 1368. The nozzle1368 outside tapers to an end, with a constant inner diameter 1372 ofapproximately 0.0995″. The air/fluid mixture emerges into thedeceleration chamber 1374 and then emerges out the end of thedeceleration chamber 1374 at near atmospheric pressure, as shown byarrow 1322. The sections are connected together using gaskets or O-rings1376 to provide fluid-proof seals.

For this embodiment, the deceleration chamber 1374 is approximately 3″long with an interior diameter of approximately 1.1415″. The nozzle 1368extends approximately 1″ into the deceleration chamber 1374. The nozzle1368 defines a venturi chamber 1370 with a tapered inner wall having aradius of approximately 0.25″. Variations of the nozzle 1368 is shown inFIG. 27A and B, wherein the nozzle embodiments define a venturi chamber1370 with walls forming approximately a 60 degree angle (as shown byarrow 1378) reducing the dimension to the opening inner diameter 1372 ofapproximately 0.0995″. The lengths of the nozzle 1368 are varieddepending on the desired nebulization, atomization, vaporization orseparation performance, for example the short nozzle shown in FIG. 27Aor the long nozzle shown in FIG. 27B, with a length of approximately 1″.

The systems and methods disclosed are also applicable and useful in thebreakdown, vaporization, and homogenization of waste fluids forincineration and waste management. As the waste fluid particles arebroken down into extremely small particle sizes, the waste fluidintroduced into an incinerator will be burned more efficiently, therebyminimizing pollution and increasing the efficiency of which the wastefluids are incinerated.

Although the invention has been shown and described with respect toillustrative embodiments thereof, various other changes, omissions andadditions in the form and detail thereof may be made therein withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A vortex system for nebulizing a liquid forinhalation, comprising: a venturi component, fluidly coupled to a sourceof compressed gas, and fluidly coupled to a source of said liquid; avortex component, comprising: a chamber housing defining a vortexchamber where a vortical flow is generated and the liquid is atomized,the chamber housing being fluidly coupled to said venturi component; aplurality of apertures formed in said chamber housing to allow input offluid tangentially into said vortex chamber to create a vortical flow insaid vortex chamber; and a chamber output, fluidly coupled to saidvortex chamber for discharging fluid from said vortex chamber.
 2. Thevortex system according to claim 1 wherein said plurality of aperturesare arranged in rows and columns in said chamber housing.
 3. The vortexsystem according to claim 2 further including: a second vortex componentcomprising: a second chamber housing defining a second vortex chamber,fluidly coupled to said chamber output; a plurality of apertures formedin said second chamber housing to allow the input of fluid tangentiallyinto said second vortex chamber to create a vortical flow in said vortexchamber, said plurality of apertures being arranged in rows andstaggered columns in said second chamber housing; and a second chamberoutput, fluidly coupled to said second vortex chamber for dischargingfluid from said second vortex chamber.
 4. The vortex system according toclaim 3 further including: a third vortex component, identical to saidsecond vortex component, wherein a third chamber housing defining athird vortex chamber is fluidly coupled to said second chamber output.5. The vortex system according to claim 4 further including: a fourthvortex component comprising: a fourth chamber housing defining a fourthvortex chamber, fluidly coupled to a chamber output of said thirdchamber housing; a series of tangential elongated slots formed in saidfourth chamber housing to allow input of fluid tangentially into saidfourth vortex chamber to create a vortical flow through the vortexchamber, wherein each tangential slot extends from a top portion to abottom of said fourth vortex chamber.
 6. The vortex system according toclaim 1 wherein said chamber housing has an inner chamber wall includinga textured surface formed on said inner chamber wall.
 7. The vortexsystem according to claim 1 wherein said chamber housing has an innerchamber wall including a plurality of steps formed on said inner chamberwall.
 8. A vortex system for nebulizing a liquid for inhalation,comprising: a venturi component, fluidly coupled to a source ofcompressed gas, and fluidly coupled to a source of said liquid; aplurality of vortex components fluidly coupled in series, each vortexcomponent comprising: a chamber housing defining a vortex chamber wherea vortical flow is generated and the liquid is atomized, the chamberhousing being fluidly coupled to a chamber output of a previous vortexcomponent; a plurality of apertures formed in said chamber housing toallow input of fluid tangentially into said vortex chamber to create avortical flow in said vortex chamber; and a chamber output, fluidlycoupled to said vortex chamber for discharging fluid from said vortexchamber; wherein a chamber housing of a first one of said plurality ofvortex components is fluidly coupled to said venturi component.
 9. Avortex system for nebulizing a liquid for inhalation, comprising: avortex component, comprising: a chamber housing defining a vortexchamber where a vortical flow is generated and the liquid is atomized,the chamber housing being fluidly coupled to a source of compressed gas,and fluidly coupled to a source of said liquid; a plurality of aperturesformed in said chamber housing to allow input of fluid tangentially intosaid vortex chamber to create a vortical flow in said vortex chamber; achamber output, fluidly coupled to said vortex chamber for dischargingfluid from said vortex chamber; and a deceleration component, fluidlycoupled to said chamber output.
 10. The vortex system of claim 9,further including: a venturi component, fluidly coupled to a source ofcompressed gas, and to a source of said liquid, and fluidly coupled tosaid chamber housing.
 11. The vortex system of claim 9, wherein saidchamber output includes a fluid pressure decreasing component in fluidconnection with said vortex chamber and said deceleration component. 12.The vortex system of claim 11, wherein said fluid pressure decreasingcomponent includes a venturi.
 13. The vortex system of claim 11, whereinsaid fluid pressure decreasing component includes a nozzle.
 14. Thevortex system of claim 9 wherein said deceleration component includes achamber.
 15. The vortex system of claim 9 wherein said apertures arearranged in rows and staggered columns in said chamber housing.
 16. Thevortex system of claim 9 wherein said apertures are arranged in one rowin said chamber housing.
 17. A method for nebulizing and/or vaporizing aliquid, comprising: receiving pressurized gas; drawing in and mixingsaid liquid with said pressurized gas using a venturi component withsaid received pressurized gas; generating a vortical flow at a vortex,the vortex atomizing the pressurized gas; further mixing said mixedliquid and gas in the vortex, wherein said mixed liquid and gas enterinto said vortex through a plurality of tangential apertures in achamber wall enclosing said vortex; reducing pressure of said mixedliquid and gas exiting from said vortex using a nozzle component; anddecelerating said mixed liquid and gas in a chamber component.